Senate Bill 0243

DIGEST OF SB243 (Updated January 15, 2008 4:09 pm - DI yl)

Tree cutting by utilities. Requires a utility to follow the standards of the American National Standards Institute in performing any tree cutting activity. Requires a utility to adopt dispute resolution procedures for property owners affected by the utility's tree cutting activity. Requires that the procedures allow affected property owners to appeal any resolution reached to the utility regulatory commission. Requires a utility to give at least 21 days notice of planned tree cutting activity to: (1) the county or municipal executive of the area where the activity will occur; and (2) affected property owners. Prohibits a utility from performing tree cutting activity while a dispute or appeal is pending. Allows a utility to perform tree cutting activity: (1) without giving notice; or (2) while a dispute or appeal is pending; during certain emergencies.